Smart Shopping: Mobile Shopping and Black Friday

Black Friday is often considered the official kickoff to the holiday shopping season (even though retailers have been decorated for and advertising for the holidays since Halloween). As retailers gear up for the holiday season, having a Smartphone may save you time, money, or both. Mobile applications can help consumers price compare, save money, and scout out all the best holiday deals without ever having to leave their couch.

According to Jill Dvorak, Senior Consultant-Mobile Commerce for FitForCommerce in an interview with WalletPop, mobile shopping is expected to be up about 100% from last holiday shopping season. In 2008, mobile sales were about $396 million. Last year, they are $1.2 billion. This year mobile sales are expected to be at around $2.2-2.4 billion.

Many of the countries top retailers, such as Ebay, Amazon, and Best Buy, have developed mobile applications that allow consumers to shop with the touch of a button as well as with texting. Additionally, these applications are free to download. Mobile applications and web sites are easy-to-use and load quickly on mobile devices.

Smartphone users can sign up for tweets, text, and e-mail alerts on deals, promotions, special pricing, and to learn about new products and services. Additionally, users are able to text for free samples, especially in the perfume and cosmetic industry. Additionally, checking into stores with applications like FourSquare and Shopkick will provide consumers with additionally and on the stop discounts.

Mobile shopping will allow shopper to get all the Black Friday deals without the holiday shopping crowds in brick and mortar establishments.

As an added bonus, parents will not have to worry about kids checking their computer browser history to check out what retailer sites mom and dad have visited. Mobile shopping is a secure way to shop even with a house full of curious children. They won’t know what Santa is bringing until Christmas morning.

Take a look at what Preface Media has down for retailer Brown Jordan. Let us do the same for you this season! Let mobile shopping spread a little cheer and added income for your retail business.